Christian Horner was present at the unveiling of the Energy F1-2014, Renault’s next Formula 1 engine, and was “immediately struck by the size of the power plant” while expecting a big challenge to optimise the performance of the unit under the new regulations.

“It’s deceptively big,” was Horner’s first impression. “There’s an awful lot more to the engines next year with the electrical units, the turbo and so on.”

The Red Bull team principal pointed out, “The real challenge is going to be all about fuel economy. We have 100 kg [of fuel] to start a grand prix with next year. That’s going to be a different challenge to what we currently have, trying to navigate yourself as quickly as possible to the chequered flag – especially at tracks like Singapore that are heavy on fuel consumption. That’s going to be difficult but ultimately I don’t think it will change racing too much.”

During the launch, Renault took the opportunity to demonstrate the sound that the engine is expected to make, with a simulated lap around Singapore’s Marina Bay Circuit.